Robert Primus - Member of the Surface Transportation Board

On 28 August 2025, the same day as Monarez's removal, the White House also dismissed Robert Primus, a Democratic member of the board of the Surface Transportation Board, the body that regulates the US railway industry. Primus, already known for opposing the Canadian Pacific-Kansas City Southern merger, was analysing the controversial $85 billion mega-merger project between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. His removal was interpreted as a direct signal to industry players: independent evaluations will no longer be tolerated unless they are in line with the administration's priorities. Primus called his ouster 'deeply alarming and illegal', arguing that the Board must remain independent to ensure competition and safety. The move was welcomed by some industry lobbyists who accused him of hampering innovation. But for most analysts it is a step towards the extreme politicisation of an industry crucial to the national economy. Consumer associations have sounded the alarm about the possible increase in costs and decline in the quality of services. Congress has already announced hearings on the case. In the meantime, Primus's post has been temporarily given to a commissioner close to Trump.